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To make this soup, you need a few key items: - 4 cups fresh broccoli florets - 1 medium onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 4 cups vegetable broth - 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste - 1 teaspoon paprika (for a hint of warmth) These ingredients create a rich and creamy base. Fresh broccoli gives a nice bite and color. Sharp cheddar adds depth and flavor. You can change things up with these items: - Heavy cream alternatives like milk or coconut milk - Thickeners like cornstarch for a creamier soup - Seasoning options such as garlic powder or cayenne for extra kick Feel free to make this soup your own. Swapping out ingredients can add fun twists. To prepare your soup, gather these tools: - Heavy-bottomed pot - Immersion blender - Ladle and serving bowls Using a heavy pot helps heat the soup evenly. An immersion blender makes blending easy and quick. A ladle helps serve your delicious creation. For the full recipe, check the detailed instructions provided. 1. Sauté onions and garlic: Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot. Add 1 medium onion, finely chopped. Sauté for about 5 minutes until it is soft. Then, add 2 cloves of minced garlic. Cook for 1 more minute until it smells great. 2. Combine broccoli and broth: Next, add 4 cups of fresh broccoli florets. Pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth. Turn the heat to high and let it boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the broccoli is tender. 1. Boiling and simmering the ingredients: Keep an eye on the pot as the broccoli cooks. You want it soft but not mushy. The broth will soak up the broccoli's bright flavor. 2. Blending for desired texture: After simmering, it’s time to blend! Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you like chunks, blend only part of the soup or leave it as is. 1. Adding cheese and cream: Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Mix well until the cheese melts completely. This is where the soup gets its rich and creamy texture. 2. Adjusting seasoning: Taste your soup. Add salt, freshly ground black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of paprika for warmth. Mix well and adjust as needed. You want the flavors just right for your taste buds. This quick and creamy broccoli cheddar soup is a joy to make. It's perfect for a cozy meal and pairs wonderfully with crusty bread. For the full recipe, check out the Cozy Broccoli Cheddar Bliss section. - Choosing the right broccoli: Look for bright green florets. They should be firm and tightly packed. Avoid any yellowing or wilting. Fresh broccoli gives the best flavor and color. - Ensuring the best cheese melt: Use sharp cheddar cheese for a rich taste. Grate the cheese yourself for better melting. Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents, which can make it clump. - Troubleshooting texture problems: If your soup is too chunky, blend it more. You can use an immersion blender. If it's too thin, add a bit of cornstarch mixed with cold water to thicken it. - Flavor enhancement suggestions: Add a pinch of nutmeg for warmth or a splash of lemon juice for brightness. Taste as you go to find the perfect balance. - Pairing with bread or sides: Serve your soup with crusty bread or a fresh salad. A side of garlic bread takes it to the next level. - Presentation tips for a beautiful serve: Ladle the soup into warm bowls. Top with chopped chives or green onions. A sprinkle of paprika adds color and flair. {{image_4}} You can easily make this soup healthier. Here are some simple swaps: - Using low-fat dairy products: Instead of heavy cream, try low-fat milk or Greek yogurt. This cuts calories but keeps it creamy. - Adding extra vegetables: Toss in some carrots, cauliflower, or spinach. They add color and nutrients without changing the taste much. Want to spice things up? Here are some fun options: - Experimenting with spices and herbs: Try adding thyme, rosemary, or a pinch of cayenne for a kick. These can bring new life to your soup. - Adding proteins for a heartier meal: Consider adding cooked chicken or diced tofu. This makes the soup filling and adds extra protein. Going plant-based? You can still enjoy this soup with some changes: - Substitutes for cheese and cream: Use cashew cream or nutritional yeast instead of cheese. This gives a rich flavor without dairy. - Plant-based broth choices: Choose vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This keeps the dish vegan-friendly while adding depth to the flavor. These variations can help you tailor the soup to your taste. Check out the Full Recipe to get started! To keep your soup fresh, use airtight containers. Glass or BPA-free plastic containers work well. Make sure to let the soup cool before sealing it. Place the containers in the fridge. The soup will stay good for about three to four days. To freeze this soup, let it cool fully first. Pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Squeeze out any extra air to prevent freezer burn. Label the bags with the date. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat, take the soup out of the freezer. Put it in the fridge overnight to thaw. If you're in a hurry, you can thaw it in a pot over low heat. Stir often to help it warm evenly. Consume your leftovers within four days for the best taste. After this, the soup may start to lose its flavor. Look for signs of spoilage. If it smells sour or has a strange color, throw it away. Fresh ingredients are key to great soup, so always check. Making Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup takes about 35 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients. This includes chopping the onion and garlic and cutting the broccoli. The cooking time is about 25 minutes. You will sauté, boil, and blend the soup in that time. It’s a quick and tasty meal! Yes, you can use frozen broccoli in this soup. Frozen broccoli is convenient and saves time. It is often picked at peak freshness and frozen quickly. However, cooking time may change slightly. You may need to simmer it a bit longer to ensure it is tender. Just be sure to thaw it before adding it to the pot. If you need a cheese alternative, there are several options. You can use Monterey Jack or Gouda for a different flavor. Cream cheese can also add a creamy texture. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste. Just remember, each cheese will change the flavor a bit, so choose what you like! This article shared easy steps to make the perfect broccoli cheddar soup. We covered key ingredients, preparation, and cooking tips. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your twist, there’s room for creativity. Don’t forget the storage advice for leftovers and variations for different diets. You can enjoy a warm bowl of soup any day. My final thought: have fun in the kitchen! Make it your own and enjoy every spoonful.

Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Discover the ultimate cozy broccoli cheddar bliss with this delicious recipe that's perfect for any chilly day! Made with fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and a touch of cream, this soup is not only easy to prepare but also comforting and satisfying. Enjoy it with crusty bread for a hearty meal. Click to explore how to create this creamy delight in just 35 minutes and make your kitchen smell amazing!
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Ingredients
  

4 cups fresh broccoli florets

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

4 cups vegetable broth

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1 cup heavy cream

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

1 teaspoon paprika (for a hint of warmth)

1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for a thicker consistency)

Fresh chives or green onions, chopped, for garnish

Instructions
 

In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent.

    Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly until aromatic.

      Carefully incorporate the fresh broccoli florets and vegetable broth into the pot. Increase the heat to high to bring the mixture to a brisk boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for approximately 15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.

        For a creamy texture, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it reaches your preferred consistency. If you prefer a heartier soup, blend only part of the mixture or leave it as is.

          Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese into the blended soup, along with the salt, freshly ground black pepper, and paprika. Allow it to cook on low heat, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is evenly heated. If you desire a creamier texture, dissolve the cornstarch in a small amount of cold water and gradually stir it into the soup, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the soup thickens nicely.

            Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as desired; feel free to add additional salt, pepper, or paprika according to your preference.

              Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4

                - Presentation Tips: Ladle the soup into warm, inviting bowls and generously sprinkle with freshly chopped chives or green onions for a vibrant finishing touch. For a truly comforting experience, pair the soup with a slice of crusty artisan bread on the side. Relish your warm and cheesy creation!